DraftKings and FanDuel back Massachusetts iGaming bills urging regulation and safety

The Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure convened on June 23, 2025, to discuss significant legislative proposals regarding online casino gaming in Massachusetts. The primary focus was on Senate Bill 235 and House Bill 332, which aim to authorize regulated online casino gaming, commonly referred to as iGaming.

David Prestwood, representing DraftKings, opened the meeting by emphasizing the potential economic benefits of legalizing iGaming. He highlighted that Massachusetts could generate between $230 million and $275 million annually in new tax revenue at a proposed 20% tax rate. Prestwood argued that regulating iGaming would provide a safer alternative to the existing illegal market, which currently operates without consumer protections or tax contributions to the state.

James Hartman from FanDuel echoed these sentiments, stressing that unregulated online gambling is already prevalent in Massachusetts, with residents able to access illegal platforms easily. He pointed out the lack of consumer protections in these unregulated environments, contrasting them with the robust safeguards offered by licensed operators, such as age verification and responsible gaming tools.

John Pappas, representing the iDevelopment and Economic Association, reinforced the argument for regulation by citing significant illegal gambling activity in Massachusetts. He noted that regulating iGaming could create jobs and increase tax revenue without negatively impacting existing land-based casinos. Pappas suggested that the proposed legislation could benefit from allowing more competitive options for operators.

Zach Khan from the Sports Betting Alliance added that legalizing iGaming would not cannibalize the brick-and-mortar casino market, as evidenced by trends in other states where both sectors have seen growth. He emphasized that a regulated market would enhance revenue opportunities for existing casinos.

However, opposition emerged from various stakeholders, including Jamie McNeil from the Hospitality Workers Union, who argued that legalizing iGaming could lead to significant job losses in the casino sector. McNeil cited studies indicating that states with iGaming have experienced declines in employment at brick-and-mortar casinos.

Mark Stewart from the National Association Against iGaming raised concerns about the potential for increased gambling addiction, citing alarming statistics from states that have legalized iGaming. He warned that the expansion of online gambling could exacerbate public health issues related to addiction.

Brianne Dorosh, a problem gambling expert, also voiced opposition, highlighting the societal impacts of gambling addiction and the disproportionate revenue generated from individuals with gambling problems.

The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion and consideration of the implications of the proposed legislation. The committee members were urged to weigh the potential economic benefits against the risks associated with expanding online gambling in Massachusetts. The next steps will involve further analysis and deliberation on the bills as the committee seeks to balance consumer protection, economic growth, and public health concerns.